"We regularly receive and act on information about this kind of online activity so you can expect a visit from us soon."

Safeguard and protecting children

In the last 12 months, 168 cases of indecent images have been referred to Hampshire Constabulary. Each case has resulted, or will lead to, police action.

D/Supt Hogg continued:

"The possession and distribution of indecent images of children is not a victimless crime and our priority is to safeguard and protect those children who are put at risk. Operation Trinity does so principally by disrupting the livesof those believed to be accessing this material and so upset the demand for it.

"As well as the police turning up on your doorstep in the early hours, offenders will have to live with the social stigma of the crime which can ruin lives, careers, and family relationships.

"In those cases where we believe children are at direct harm, by living at the address or through the suspect's work for example, we can take steps to prevent that.

"Suspects can be excluded from returning home and we can share evidence of their supposed behaviour with their partners or employers.

"If you suspect someone you know is accessing and/or distributing indecent images of children, let us know. You can contact us on 101 or 999 if you think a child is at direct risk of harm. The more we know, the more we can do about it.

"Ultimately, we want this sort of behaviour to stop. If you're worried about your own sexual thoughts or behaviour towards children, you must get help. You can call the Stop It Now Helpline on 0808 1000 900."